Scandic Ishavshotel

Deep inside the Norwegian Arctic, on an island fringed by majestic fjords, craggy peaks and icy waters, lies the city of Tromsø. In many ways, it belies its remote location and wild surroundings close to the northernmost edge of continental Europe, with a lively cultural scene, a thriving culinary landscape, and a fun, easy-going energy underpinned by a diverse population of around 140 different nationalities. 

It’s a place of stark seasonal contrasts, from the perpetual daylight and Midnight Sun of the summer months to the near-constant darkness of Polar Night and the ethereal glow of the Northern Lights. When blanketed in snow, Tromsø’s array of colourful, timber-clad houses are a particularly charming sight, while the bold, angular elegance of the Arctic Cathedral, just across the water from downtown, is the city’s proud architectural highlight. 

From the Polar Museum to the world’s northernmost botanical garden and the plethora of cosy cafes and souvenir stores along the main street (Storgata), there’s no shortage of things to see and do in the city itself. Take a trip on the Fjellheisen cable car to the summit of Mount Storsteinen for the ultimate viewpoint of Tromsø from above, and find respite from the cold in the floating sauna, Pust, in the middle of the harbour. 

And of course, a whole host of thrilling outdoor adventures await, including husky sledding, skiing, snowmobiling and whale watching. Joining a guided Northern Lights tour is your best bet for escaping the clouds to witness one of nature’s greatest shows – though you might be lucky enough to see them from the city when the skies are clear.